Detroit Red Wings vs Minnesota Wild Prediction | NHL 22.01.26

Detroit Red Wings vs Minnesota Wild Game Analysis | 22-01-2026 | NHL

On January 22, 2026, the Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul will host a compelling regular-season matchup between the Detroit Red Wings (31-16-4) and the Minnesota Wild (28-14-9) at 9:30 PM. This contest pits two playoff-contending teams against each other, with Detroit looking to solidify its strong record and Minnesota aiming to climb the standings despite recent setbacks.

Detroit Red Wings Team Performance

The Detroit Red Wings have demonstrated formidable offensive prowess this season, reflected in their impressive record. They excel at generating scoring chances, often leveraging their speed and skill through the neutral zone. Their power play has been a significant asset, consistently converting opportunities. While their goaltending has been solid, defensive lapses occasionally surface, leading to high-danger chances against. However, their ability to outscore opponents has been a defining characteristic of their success.

Detroit Red Wings Key Players

• Points: Lucas Raymond (54)
• Goals: Alex DeBrincat (26)
• Assists: Lucas Raymond (39)

Minnesota Wild Team Performance

The Minnesota Wild have maintained a respectable record, largely due to their disciplined defensive structure and opportunistic offense. However, recent injuries have tested their depth, particularly on the blue line and down the middle. While Kirill Kaprizov continues to be an elite offensive force, the team’s ability to maintain sustained pressure has wavered. Their penalty kill remains robust, but the absence of key two-way forwards and defensive stalwarts will undoubtedly impact their overall game control.

Minnesota Wild Key Players

• Points: Kirill Kaprizov (59)
• Goals: Kirill Kaprizov (25)
• Assists: Kirill Kaprizov (34)

Injury Report Minnesota Wild

• Jonas Brodin (Injured reserve): Brodin (lower body) won’t return before the Olympics and will not represent Sweden at the tournament, Michael Russo of The Athletic reports Tuesday.
• Joel Eriksson Ek (Injured reserve): Eriksson Ek (lower body) was placed on injured reserve Friday, according to Michael Russo of The Athletic.
• Zach Bogosian (Injured reserve): Head coach John Hynes said Thursday that he anticipates that Bogosian (undisclosed) will be able to return at some point during the Wild’s upcoming three-game road trip, Michael Russo of The Athletic reports.

Prediction: Detroit Red Wings vs Minnesota Wild

Considering Detroit’s potent offense led by Raymond and DeBrincat, coupled with Minnesota’s significant defensive injuries to Brodin and Bogosian, the Red Wings are poised to capitalize. The absence of Joel Eriksson Ek further weakens Minnesota’s two-way game. Therefore, we predict the Detroit Red Wings will win. Given Detroit’s offensive firepower and Minnesota’s compromised defense, the total goals prediction is over the line of 6.5.